This year’s NBA free agency class is suiting up to be a rough one. Outside of Zach LaVine, who is likely to re-sign with the Chicago Bulls, there aren’t going to be many great free agents available on the open market.
However, while that doesn’t mean there aren’t going to be a ton of players changing teams. Instead of free agency being robust, though, expect a ton of trades to go down.
One of the main players to watch this summer will be Bradley Beal. And according to recent NBA rumors, one team, in particular, stands out amongst the rest.
Shams Charania says Miami Heat are serious Bradley Beal contenders
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic (subscription required), the Miami Heat are seen as one of the top options for Beal should he elect to leave Washington this summer. (H/T Bleacher Report)
Beal and the Washington Wizards did not agree to a contract extension, and although Beal has a player option, he’s expected to opt-out of it and explore his options this offseason.
The long-time Wizard hasn’t shut down the notion of re-signing in Washington and has actually expressed his openness to that idea. He’d be able to get more money if he re-signed, as it would make him eligible for a supermax contract.
However, it’s clear that the Wizards just don’t have what it takes to compete in the Eastern Conference right now. So unless serious changes are made, Beal will probably have to move elsewhere if he wants any shot at a championship.
If that’s his end goal, then the Heat should definitely be toward the top of his list of potential teams. He’d fit seamlessly into their starting lineup and could take over as the main scoring option.
The only question is, how would the Heat go about signing him? It would have to be a sign-and-trade, but what players would Miami be willing to give up for Beal.
That’s a question that can be answered this summer. Regardless, if Charania is pointing out that the Heat are considered a legitimate option for Beal, it’s important keep that in the back of your mind.